Pennant Hints at Slot Rift as Liverpool's Jones Faces Uncertain Future Amid Tottenham Interest

Jermain Pennant reckons Liverpool could cash in on Curtis Jones this summer, pointing to what he describes as a fractured relationship with Arne Slot as evidence the midfielder's time at Anfield may be drawing to a close.

The 25-year-old has been starved of Premier League action this season, accumulating just 10 starts and recently finding himself restricted to cameo appearances off the bench. His exile from the starting lineup has coincided with interest from both Inter Milan—who pursued him at the January window—and Tottenham, who have also reportedly thrown their hat in the ring.

Pennant, who made 81 appearances for Liverpool during his playing days, suspects the transfer rumours themselves are a telltale sign something has soured between player and manager. "To me, with the interest from Tottenham, his contract and Inter Milan, the bond with him and Slot, I think there's been a bit of a tiff and not seeing eye-to-eye," the former left-back told talkSPORT.

The pundit acknowledged Jones possesses qualities his midfield rivals lack, particularly in his ability to drive play forward and contribute defensively. With Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Alexis Mac Allister forming what many consider Liverpool's elite three in the centre, Jones offers an alternative profile. "He can give us legs and dictate the tempo sometimes, get forward and track back…he's good on the ball," Pennant explained, before noting that his recent absence from the starting XI raises legitimate questions.

Slot, however, has painted a different picture. Speaking after the transfer window closed, the Liverpool manager suggested Jones had simply been unfortunate with the timing of his squad rotation. "He has played a lot of minutes and unlucky in the sense that midfield is the only line we haven't had injuries," Slot said. He went on to emphasise that Jones remains part of his plans, noting that Liverpool's injury-free midfield meant the player would naturally see fewer opportunities. "It would be strange if we let anyone go," Slot added, highlighting that Jones remains one of 16 available outfield players.

Jones is contracted to Liverpool until 2027, but speculation over a potential summer departure has intensified. Should Slot remain in charge at the end of the season, the midfielder could find himself searching for regular football elsewhere come the summer transfer window.